Experts share 3 ways to plan summer travel on a budget

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – Summer is right around the corner and for those planning a vacation, they are likely trying to decide on the best time to travel and how to do it on a budget.

To alleviate some of the stress in planning, there are three simple ways to live the vacation life, without blowing the budget.

1. Start planning as soon as possible. It’s never too early to start monitoring flight prices. Tools like Google Flights and Hopper’s Watch This Trip are easy ways to set up automatic monitoring. Experts say for trips abroad, consider booking between three and six months ahead of the planned travel time for the best prices. If staying closer to home, start monitoring now, and most experts say book one to two months before the intended travel date.
2. Consider hotel options that bundle your offerings. All-inclusive hotels can help save money. While the upfront cost may seem steep, when it includes food, drinks and excursions on the property, it is often a deal. If not staying at an all-inclusive resort, experts say consider things like booking a hotel with breakfast built into the rate. According to KAYAK, domestically, hotel rates are down 7%. Internationally, they’re up 2%.
3. Be flexible and be willing to book off the beaten path. According to Google Flights, the most popular destinations this summer are cities like London and Paris. Experts suggest stepping outside the comfort zone and explore a lesser-known destination. Travel agents can help do that, or information can be found online through blogs and reviews.

Another travel recommendation experts suggest is to avoid checking a bag. Airline delays and cancellations can create issues with baggage, so if for those who can travel light, they should.

Also Read: Charlotte family pushing to make flights more accessible after girl’s wheelchair severely damaged

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